Link will bring 3100 jobs: Study

A planned arterial road enabling industry to develop at the proposed Whakatu food distribution centre could translate into 3100 new jobs for Hawke's Bay people and add $338.6 million to the region's GDP over 30 years.

The road is the top priority for the region and was factored into the $24 million of funding available from the New Zealand Transport Agency, to be spent over the next three years on local roading projects.

Economic Solutions was commissioned by Hastings District Council to complete a study on the economic impacts of the road, which would start on State Highway 2 near Mangateretere, go through Whakatu and on to Pakowhai Rd.

The study said just over 3000 jobs would be created from new industry development at Whakatu but about 350 jobs in the horticulture sector would disappear because some pipfruit production land would be converted for the new road.

During construction, 150 jobs would arise and another nine would be required for ongoing maintenance, once the route was completed. The $338.6 million figure for projected GDP growth, as a result of the road opening up new industry at Whakatu, was calculated in current dollar values.

Details of the study formed part of the council's presentation to three public meetings this week where it was gathering feedback on four proposed routes for the new road.

The results would be considered by a design group heading the project, and then to the council to make a decision on a final route at the end of this month.

The council's transportation manager, Jag Pannu, said there were about 10 private, government and commercial land owners who would be affected by the new road. He was meeting with each to explain the project.

"The process is collaborative which means we are applying collective values, knowledge and experience with a win/win attitude. It is also about taking a balanced view between competing objectives and priorities. We believe this project will produce huge benefits for our regional and local community."

Work on the options for the arterial route began this year when the design group of 13 people was set up. It included community and business representatives, those advocating on environment issues, and tangata whenua.The group came up with ideas on where the new road should be located. The suggestions were consolidated into four options, to be assessed and considered by the council.

Mr Pannu said the new arterial route through Whakatu would help move traffic from Havelock North travelling to Napier.

It would also provide an alternative route for heavy traffic through to the Hawke's Bay Expressway and on to the Port of Napier.